New York Pension Plans Tied To Israel Genocidal Bonds: 2 Democratic NY Comptroller Candidates Vow To Divest From And Block Israel Bonds

Ahead of Democratic Primary, Candidates for New York State Comptroller Commit to Higher Ethical Standards
Challengers Goyle and Warshaw Agree on Critique of DiNapoli’s Investments in Israel

Press Release of Break the Bonds Comptroller Candidate Forum that took place June 8, 2026.
Video of the forum so you can hear how they will drop the Israeli bonds from New York State pension investments is published in this article below.

Just ahead of New York’s June 23 primary, tonight two candidates for New York State Comptroller committed to implement higher ethical standards if elected to the office, in a 90-minute candidate forum hosted by the Break the Bonds New York State Coalition and New York chapters of Jewish Voice for Peace and Democratic Socialists of America. Candidates Drew Warshaw and Raj Goyle fielded questions from voters and participants in the state pension plans managed by the Comptroller. Incumbent Tom DiNapoli did not respond to the invitation from forum sponsors.

“As of March 31, 2025, the New York State Common Retirement Fund is invested in $367.5M worth of Israel bonds. ”

“The winner of this election will have the opportunity to stop funding genocide, and the question is whether he will be committed to doing so,” said Arthur Camins, a Beacon-based member of the Hudson Valley chapter of Jewish Voice for Peace. “New York State is one of the largest US institutional investors in Israel bonds, an investment that is neither ethical nor financially sound. “

The two candidates joined a virtual forum of over 200 participants from the voting public, including public employees who participate in the $273 billion New York State Common Retirement Fund of which the Comptroller is sole fiduciary.

“We aren’t required just because we want a low cost index-like investment to invest in the stuff that is killing people, the planet and our pension fund”

— Drew Warshaw

Both Goyle and Warshaw committed to stop investing in Israel Bonds, if elected. Israel Bonds are loans from individuals and institutions to the Israeli treasury that provide critical financial support for the Israeli military and government–including the Israeli military’s genocidal war on Gaza as well as forced displacement of Palestinian families from their homes, and the Israeli government’s separate-and-unequal system of apartheid. As of March 31, 2025, the New York State Common Retirement Fund is invested in $367.5M worth of Israel bonds.

The two candidates answered questions from participants regarding their approach to investments, ethics in investments, the risks of political pressure to make bad investments, and conflicts of interest.

“We aren’t required just because we want a low cost index-like investment to invest in the stuff that is killing people, the planet and our pension fund” -Drew Warshaw

“Families everywhere just want to trust their leaders are working for them. This is about New Yorkers. This is about a moment when the opportunity to take power and money, and use it for the New Yorkers that don’t have those two things.” - Drew Warshaw

“Tom DiNapoli says you cannot have moral clarity with fiduciary duty. That is simply wrong, they are deeply intertwined. We can act on our values, and I will. We can invest in New York social infrastructure. We can protect the middle class and the pensioners.”

— Raj Goyle

“Tom DiNapoli says you cannot have moral clarity with fiduciary duty. That is simply wrong, they are deeply intertwined. We can act on our values, and I will. We can invest in New York social infrastructure. We can protect the middle class and the pensioners.” - Raj Goyle

The following organizations sponsored the forum: Jewish Voice for Peace Syracuse, Jewish Voice for Peace Hudson Valley, Jewish Voice for Peace Albany, Capital District Democratic Socialists of America, Mid-Hudson Valley Democratic Socialists of America, Buffalo Democratic Socialists of America, Jewish Voice for Peace Buffalo and Jewish Voice for Peace NYC.

“The State Comptroller is such an important position to ensure that New Yorkers’ retirement funds are not invested in genocide, other human rights abuses, or unethical surveillance,” said Lisa Lindsley, Mid Hudson Valley DSA member and participant in the NY State & Local Retirement System. “It is critical that we all vote in the upcoming primary. New Yorkers deserve true leadership in our Comptroller.”

‘Project Beacon’ Proposed As Endbridge Pipeline For Peekskill; Residents Come Out To Reject And Call Out Congressman Mike Lawler For Supporting

Lawmakers join the Peekskill community in rallying to reject pipeline expansion and calling out Congressman Lawler for putting the oil & gas industry before constituents

From a Press Release issued by New York Communities for Change.
Edits in [ ] made by A Little Beacon Blog.

Peekskill residents and elected officials gathered today to protest the latest “rebrand” of fossil fuel giant Enbridge’s proposed pipeline project, one that was resoundingly rejected by local communities last year for the skyrocketing utility costs and pollution it would bring to the region.

“Did the last pipeline to come through Peekskill lower our bills? No, it didn’t. ‘Project Beacon,’ aka ‘Project Maple,’ won’t either. Whatever you want to call it, we don’t need the disruption and pollution this pipeline expansion will cause for any reason. ”

— Assemblywoman Dana Levenberg

Local elected officials including Assemblywoman Dana Levenberg, Tarrytown trustee Effie Phillips-Staley , and Rockland County legislator Beth Davidson rallied with the Peekskill community, calling out the rebranding and demanding an end to the development.

[ALBB Edit: Effie Phillips-Staley appeared in our recent article highlighting campaign money Congressman Mike Lawler AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) accepted from AIPAC as someone running against Mike Lawler. Per her website: “Effie Phillips-Staley is a Tarrytown Trustee and nonprofit executive who has dedicated her life to social justice and public service. Raised in a union household by a public school educator from El Salvador and a blue-collar U.S. military veteran, Effie learned early the values of hard work, dignity, and community. She is running for Congress because this moment demands transformational change, not politics as usual that serve corporations and the ultra-rich while working families fall behind. In Congress, Effie will put people first by fighting for Medicare for All, universal childcare, building five million new homes across America, abolishing ICE and “Block the Bombs” legislation, a proposed Act of Congress introduced in 2025 to prohibit the President of the United States from "selling, transferring, or exporting certain defense articles or services to Israel, except in specified circumstances." She will never take money from corporate PACs or AIPAC.”

‘Project Beacon’? What Is This Oil Company Trying To Sneak In?

Less than three years ago, Enbridge introduced the “Project Maple” pipeline expansion, which residents and elected officials spent years fighting and soundly defeated in 2025. Now, Enbridge is attempting to resurrect the project under a new name, “Project Beacon.” Hudson Valley residents know this will only cause the spread of dirty, fracked gas to the region and will raise already-high utility bills.

Community members called out Congressman Mike Lawler, a former fossil fuel lobbyist who has previously supported dirty, expensive fossil fuel projects, noting the vast donations Lawler has accepted from oil and gas giants to fund his campaign. Advocates have called on elected officials at all levels to put their constituents first and oppose the project.

“Let’s call ‘Project Beacon’ exactly what it is: a corporate rebrand of the same dirty ‘Project Maple’ pipeline expansion that over 200 local and state elected officials already fought and defeated. It is unconscionable to spend taxpayer money on fossil fuel infrastructure that will worsen climate change against the will of the people of NY17. It’s time to put toxic energy behind us and direct our resources toward clean, renewable sources of the future.”

— Tarrytown Trustee Effie Phillips-Staley

"Did the last pipeline to come through Peekskill lower our bills? No, it didn't. ‘Project Beacon,’ aka ‘Project Maple,’ won't either. Whatever you want to call it, we don't need the disruption and pollution this pipeline expansion will cause for any reason,” said Assemblywoman Dana Levenberg. “I remain firmly opposed to this project, because locally-developed clean energy is what we need for lower bills and healthy homes.”

“Let’s call 'Project Beacon' exactly what it is: a corporate rebrand of the same dirty 'Project Maple' pipeline expansion that over 200 local and state elected officials already fought and defeated. It is unconscionable to spend taxpayer money on fossil fuel infrastructure that will worsen climate change against the will of the people of NY17. It’s time to put toxic energy behind us and direct our resources toward clean, renewable sources of the future,” said Tarrytown trustee Effie Phillips-Staley.

“I’m proud to have worked alongside environmental advocates to pass the first countywide resolution in New York State to oppose Project Maple, and I’ll work just as tirelessly to stop Project Beacon,” said Rockland County Legislator Beth Davidson. “We’ve sent Albany and Washington a strong message: no more dirty and dangerous pipeline expansions in our communities.”

Photo Credit: New York Community For Change

“Costs are already skyrocketing all over the state, and folks like me just can’t afford another dirty, expensive pipeline. Enbridge CEO Greg Ebel makes nearly $25 million a year. The Con Ed CEO makes $20 million – how is that right when the rest of us can barely get by?” said Jessica Martinez, Peekskill resident and member at New York Communities for Change. “Elected officials at every level up to Governor Hochul and Congressman Lawler must oppose and stop Enbridge's ‘Project Beacon,’ which would raise our bills and add tons of pollution.”

“Rep. Mike Lawler, who represents the parts of Rockland, Westchester, and Putnam county that the existing Enbridge pipeline runs through has not yet spoken out against this expansion and the hardship it would cause his constituents. Why not?”

— Melissa Hoffmann, organizer with Food & Water Watch

“We are disappointed and angry that we have to have this fight. People are paying higher and higher prices for dirty energy, all while fossil fuel CEOs earn millions,” said Shokoofeh Rajabzadeh of Climate Families Westchester. “We are hopeful that after seeing our resilience and determination in the last round, our leaders – including Hochul – will step up and stop ‘Project Beacon’ or any other dirty fossil fuel project that comes our way.”

“There are three large interstate pipelines running through the Indian Point nuclear plant, including the 42-inch AIM pipeline that was added beginning in 2015. Based on New York State’s own independent safety analysis, the Homeland Security department wrote to FERC in 2018 expressing the view that any increase in capacity would be unacceptable and that Enbridge might need to ‘temporarily cease gas operations during the decommissioning activities,’” said Nancy Vann, President of Safe Energy Rights Group. “It makes no sense to increase the risks to our community by any expansion like ‘Project Beacon’ now or for the foreseeable future.”

What Else Has Congressman Mike Lawler Voted For?

"Rep. Mike Lawler, who represents the parts of Rockland, Westchester, and Putnam county that the existing Enbridge pipeline runs through has not yet spoken out against this expansion and the hardship it would cause his constituents. Why not?" said Melissa Hoffmann, organizer with Food & Water Watch. "Maybe it's because he voted for legislation that would fast track pipeline approvals and drastically limit state’s rights to have a say in fossil fuel projects. Maybe it’s because he also voted for legislation that would limit the ability of local communities that will be most affected by fossil fuel projects to speak out. If Lawler wants to do right by his constituents, he must end his record of prioritizing corporate polluters over the health and economic well-being of his constituents and oppose the Enbridge pipeline expansion."

Background On “Project Beacon” Pipeline

While Enbridge has yet to disclose full details of their proposed “Project Beacon,” it is nearly identical to the “Project Maple” pipeline expansion they proposed in 2023, which was eventually blocked by citizens and elected leaders concerned with the pollution and utility bill increases the pipeline would bring.

News Channel 7 Interviewing a spokesperson about the Algonquin Gas Transmission line.
Photo Credit: New York Community For Change

The expansion would drastically increase the gas flow from the Algonquin Gas Transmission line, transporting fracked gas into New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. Enbridge is currently in the “open season” phase, meaning the company has announced the proposal and is soliciting bids from gas and power companies to gauge interest in buying the gas the expansion would bring. The company will then need to secure financing and permitting.

Residents of the areas affected by the pipeline expansion say it’s vital to stop this project before it gets any further along in the development process, as they managed to do with Project Maple. They note that the pipeline would be expensive to build, raise already sky-high utility bills, pollute the communities through which it runs, and further our dependence on dirty energy sources rather than investing in clean energy solutions.

ALBB's FOIL Request For Any Complaints Made Against Chris White Are Delayed Till July 11th, If Granted

On May 11th, 2026, A Little Beacon Blog submitted a FOIL request for any complaints made against Chris White, age 56, Beacon’s former City Administrator who recently and unexpectedly retired in March 2026, his last day to be in June 2026. No reason was given, but during a following City Council meeting, Chris stated he wanted to make a Zoom cameo appearance on a City Council Meeting while hiking on the Appellation Trail to warn people of their 15 second mark during speeches made during Public Comment, which is when they get cut off.

Deputy City Administrator, Ben Swanson, was promoted to City Administrator upon Chris’ absence. The Deputy position was created out of thin air during Chris’s time as City Administrator. One month after his retirement announcement, the City announced that Chris was taking a leave of absence in April. Chris made no more appearances at City Council Meetings after that.

On June 8th, the City of Beacon’s Clerk, Amanda C. Caputo, responded to ALBB’s FOIL request stating that the request may or may not be granted: "Please be advised, the City requires additional time to complete your FOIL request due to the time it takes to locate and retrieve responsive records, the number of FOIL requests recently received, the breadth of the request, and the need to review certain responsive records to determine whether such records are subject to an exemption, in part of full, under FOIL.

“As such, the City anticipates you will be contacted on or about Wednesday, July 22, 2026 (i.e. thirty (30) business days) regarding the extent of which your request is granted or denied. We will notify you in writing if the City requires additional time to locate, assemble, and review records.”

Select other FOILs that ALBB has requested have also not been answered, which include:

• How much money did the City of Beacon Get per year for the MTA Newburgh Beacon Bridge License?

• Was there any disciplinary action of the Beacon Police Officer Edison "Eddie" Irizzary between his hiring in 2004 and retirement in 2021?
  ”Retired Beacon Cop Who Killed Roommate Does Not Appear In Court For 2nd Hearing - Attorney Cites Ongoing Mental Health Evaluation”

• Receipts from any scrap metal earnings to the City of Beacon around the time of March - July 2023. If money was received to the City of Beacon in exchange for any scrap metal from any company in New York or the tri-state area during that time, please submit receipts for which company, and for how many dollars were received per exchange. Thank you.

• The percentage of Beacon’s sales tax that Beacon receives back from Dutchess County that Mayor Kyriacou negotiated, as well as the full contract that this sales tax percentage is discussed.

• Please send video or link to video for City Council Meeting from August 6, 2017. This was the meeting where Michael Manzi was appointed to Superintendent of Streets, thereby dissolving and replacing Rueben Simmon's department head position of Highway Superintendent. Then City Councilmember Jodi Mcredo turned to the audience and asked if they were happy now. She was met with cheers of hoots and hollers. Then Mayor Randy Casale shushed them and told them this was not a football game. Then Councilmember Lee Kyriacou responded by saying he may have preferred watching a football game to this. This video of this City Council Meeting It used to be in Vimeo and re-cast on A Little Beacon Blog, but the video has since been removed. The video was removed under former City Administrator Chris White’s tenure.

That video of that meeting is public record, and we need it back.

Police Department Of The Village of Fishkill Concludes Review Of Nazi Salute Made By Daniel Mandia

Commissioner Glenn R. Scofield Jr. of the Village of Fishkill Police Department responded to A Little Beacon Blog’s inquiry on the response of law enforcement based on the actions of Daniel Mandia, sole owner of Mandia Construction and Sons, where he stepped into the TikTok video being made by two girls of color, performed a Nazi salute, stepped out of the camera. He then allegedly asked the girls if they knew what the salute meant, and allegedly encouraged them to post it to the Internet.

Commissioner Scofield Jr. said: “The Village of Fishkill Police Department has completed its review of the video circulating on social media. Following investigation & consultation with members of the District Attorney’s office, it has been determined that the individual's actions, while deeply offensive and disruptive to community values, constitute speech protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Because the behavior did not include a direct, credible threat of violence or physical harm, it does not meet the statutory requirements for criminal prosecution. Our agency remains committed to ensuring the safety of all community members within the boundaries of the law.”

UPDATE 6/8/2026: A Little Beacon Blog wrote to the Village of Fishkill Police with the following question, and received the following response:

Dear Commissioner Scofield:
One of our readers suggested the Endangerment of a Child Law 260.10.

Can you speak to why this law does not refer to Daniel Mandia’s actions? How he gave a salute that is known to be extremely divisive and inciting, and then allegedly made sure the girls did not know what the salute meant, and encouraged them to post it online. Which has resulted in a region-wide disruptive reaction.

From the law:
"He or she knowingly acts in a manner likely to be injurious to the
physical, mental or moral welfare of a child less than seventeen years
old or directs or authorizes such child to engage in an occupation
involving a substantial risk of danger to his or her life or health”

It certainly seems like Daniel intentionally was "injurious to the physical, mental or moral welfare” of the girls, which can lead to "substantial risk of danger to his or her life or health” of the girls.

Thank you.

---

Katie

Dear Ms. Hellmuth -
I refer you to the statement issued on June 5,2026.

Commissioner Scofield

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Birthday Gift Wish During Permit Driving Session TO School

Nearly $1.5 Million Raised by Representatives Pat Ryan and Mike Lawler from Pro-Israel Lobby

by Arvind Dilawar
Arvind Dilawar is an independent journalist. His articles, essays and interviews have appeared in The New York Times, Time Magazine, The Daily Beast and elsewhere. Find him online at: adilawar.com

The members of the House of Representatives, whose districts include Dutchess County, voted to send $4.4 billion to Israel, as well as to punish United States citizens for criticism of its government.

House of Representative members Pat Ryan and Mike Lawler together received nearly $1.5 million in campaign contributions from pro-Israel lobbyists, according to the most recent campaign finance data filed with the Federal Election Commission. Ryan received nearly $380,000 from the American Israel Political Action Committee, better known as AIPAC, and Lawler received more than $1 million. Ryan, a Democrat, also received $5,000 from Democratic Majority for Israel, and Lawler, a Republican, received $20,000 from the Republican Jewish Coalition.

Although AIPAC, DMFI and RJC target different segments of the political spectrum, they function identically: funneling campaign financing to politicians who commit to sending billions in US tax dollars to Israel, as well as deploying US military assets to fend off challenges to Israel’s ongoing genocide in the Gaza Strip, occupation of Palestinian territory in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, and aggression against Lebanon, Syria and Iran. Politicians backed by the lobby have also attempted to legislate against growing criticism of Israel in the United States and abroad.

In 2024, Ryan and Lawler voted in favor of House Resolution 8034, which approved sending $4.4 billion to Israel. Lawler also introduced — and Ryan voted for — House Resolution 6090, which advocated for criticism of Israel to be punishable under the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Additionally, Ryan and Lawler signed onto a letter encouraging the State Department to undermine South Africa's case against Israel at the International Court of Justice for committing genocide in Gaza.

Both Ryan and Lawler represent portions of Dutchess County and are currently up for re-election. According to FEC data, Ryan's re-election committee received nearly $140,000 from AIPAC during the current election cycle, and Lawler's committee received more than $630,000. The two incumbents are running unopposed for their respective parties' nominations in the primaries, for which early voting will begin June 13 at sites designated by the Dutchess County Board of Elections. Effie Phillips-Staley stands out as one of Lawler's potential Democratic opponents who has explicitly rejected funding from AIPAC.

(Both Ryan's and Lawler's re-election campaigns failed to respond to requests for comment from A Little Beacon Blog.)

"Homeland Security" Bill Enables Israel To Agree To A Ceasefire That Burns Palestinians Alive: Why Some Lawmakers Reject Section 224

“Something needs to be done. It’s good to see at the local level someone speaking out on these issues. Please continue to raise awareness. It took a single action from one individual to open this dialogue ☮️”

— Gerry Giordano

The regular morning local news coverage of the advancement of the merging of the Israeli and U.S. military sounded like this: “A Homeland Security Bill was passed.” But what does that mean? What does “Homeland Security” really mean anymore? With all of these ICE kidnappings, increasing number of suicides inside of U.S. ICE detention centers, censorship of criticism of Israel, and the United States protecting war criminals like Netanyahu, as well as blind eyes turned to current and past Presidents of the United States also being war criminals with constant bombardment and attacks on countries in the Middle East - what does “Homeland Security” really mean?

According to New Policy, “Section 224 of the Chairman’s Mark of the NDAA establishes a new U.S. Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative aimed at accelerating joint research, development, and integration of Israeli origin and jointly developed defense technologies into U.S. military systems and programs of record. It directs the Secretary of Defense to designate an executive formalize deeper cooperation and integration across emerging and existing domains, including counter-drone systems, missile and air defense, quantum computing, AI and autonomous systems, cyber and electronic warfare, directed energy, and defense industrial base co-production, while facilitating pathways from R&D into procurement. This section requires regular reporting to Congress on progress and technology transitions, and emphasizes rapid adoption of Israeli defense innovations to strengthen U.S. military capabilities and technological supremacy.”

We are so tired of watching Israel burn people alive. So tired of Zionist people saying anything to local Palestinians about terrorist sh*t. Said Gerry Giordano on ALBB’s Facebook posting of these videos: “Something needs to be done. It’s good to see at the local level someone speaking out on these issues. Please continue to raise awareness. It took a single action from one individual to open this dialogue ☮️”

At least this week’s Nazi salute article brought out more people speaking openly against Zionist Israeli military regime (see the many, many comments at Facebook and Instagram posts), murder and world domination. Everything is just coming out more and more and more into the open. This is what happens when zero accountability is held for a person or people who do wrong.

None of us are safe in silence.

Video 1: @dropsitenews

“Section 224 of the 2027 NDAA would deepen the integration of the U.S. and Israeli militaries — linking weapons production, cybersecurity, and biometric technology without requiring Israel to pass human rights tests.

“On Thursday, Rep. Ro Khanna’s amendment to strike it was voted down by the House Armed Services Committee, with only Khanna and Rep. Sarah Jacobs speaking in its favor.

“Drop Site’s Julian Andreone spoke to House members on the day of the vote, including Rep. Thomas Massie, who has called Section 224 “the worst kind of NATO arrangement ever” and has committed to introducing a new amendment to strike it when the bill reaches the floor.

“Others, like Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC), defended the provision, arguing that the U.S. has much to gain from Israeli defense technology, which is tested in its assaults on Palestine and Lebanon.”

Video 2: @novaramedia

“They signed a ceasefire with Hamas, not with children in tents that they continue to burn alive.”

“Journalist @jeremyscahill, co-founder of @dropsitenews, has highlighted how Israel uses bogus ceasefire agreements as cover while it continues to slaughter civilians on a near-daily basis.

“It’s something Iran’s government is all too aware of as it deals with the US and Israel, he told Sky News.

“In the early hours of Thursday morning local time, Israel bombed residential buildings in Gaza City, killing at least nine as an entire sleeping family of five was burned to death, Drop Site reported.

“There have been numerous cases of Israel burning civilians to death. In December last year a family of three, including two children, burned to death in their tent in the al-Mawasi displacement camp in southern Gaza.”

---

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Fishkill Rocked By HV Local, Daniel Mandia, Throwing Nazi Salute In Teenager Tik Tok He Video Bombed; Law Enforcement Reviewing

UPDATE 6/5/2026: Police Department Of The Village of Fishkill Concludes Review Of Nazi Salute Made By Daniel Mandia”

The Village of Fishkill Block Party was Saturday, May 30th 2026. It is an event that many locals in the Hudson Valley including Beacon look forward to experiencing. The exposure is good for businesses - both retail and restaurants - and the block party nature is good for the community to keep people together.

At the bouncy houses this year, two female teenagers of color (one African American and one Asian) were filming a Tik Tok dance video. They had their dance moves choreographed, and looked cheerful. As they danced, a taller white man in a white shirt and black sunglasses walked into the frame and gave a solid, strong, pointed Nazi salute, and exited the frame. The girls did not skip a beat. They finished their choreography.

According to a person familiar with the situation at the bouncy house, the man approached the girls after he gave the Nazi salute, and asked them if they knew what it meant. He then encouraged them to post the video he bombed to Tik Tok. The girls then moved from that section of the party, and inquired later what the salute meant.

The Internet was quick to identify the man as Daniel Mandia, who owns Mandia & Sons Construction, though acquaintances say he has no sons of his own, and does not work with his father. It is unknown at this time who the “Sons” refers to. Acquaintances say he goes by Danny. Multiple acquaintances say that his family does not condone his behavior. A Little Beacon Blog emailed and called the construction company for explanation of the salute, but no one has responded.

ALBB has received multiple confirmations from people both intimately and professionally familiar with Daniel that he is the man in the video making the Nazi salute. People have also forwarded a Twitter account “Captain Tyin’ Knots” @1_1savedbygrace which multiple people say is his.

The profile of this Twitter account reads: “AMERICA ONLY/Child of God/Husband/Father/Entrepreneur/GC/ 🇺🇸 ONLY /NY’r/ owner of Construction LLC ✊🏼 🇺🇸 🙏🏻 🛠️ 🧰 ⚒️”

People familiar with this account also screenshot a message that they viewed as an admission to throwing the Nazi salute at the Fishkill Block Party. In this message, the account asked: “If you throw up a Roman Salute does it automatically mean you hate all blacks, all browns and all Jews?”

This Tweet and other Tweets made this year may have since been deleted. But screenshots of them were saved by community members and are circulating on the Internet.

In past tweets, the Twitter account makes anti-Jewish remarks, including a remark about the the recent announcement that the United States Military is merging with the Israeli Army. In response to a Tweet by The General that says: “BREAKING: Congress is attempting to fuse the U.S. military with Israel’s as Section 224 of the 2027 National Defense Authorization Act ‘would all but fuse American and Israeli armed forces together.” Captain Tyin’ Knots responded: “J’s helping J’s as the Goy scrape by.”

While humanitarians supporting a free world from Zionists agree that this military merging is a bad idea, one would point out that it is Zionists, not Jews, that are making this public merger come true. Zionism is harmful and itself is antisemetic to Judaism.

One of his most telling alleged Tweets was one that set the stage for the setup of the kids he video-bombed. The Tweet may have since been deleted, but screenshots remain. It read: “Teenagers of today are so stupid, they think that it’s illegal to throw up a Roman in America.”

What Is A “Roman Salute”?

In today’s era, “A Roman” is a white supremacist reference to the Nazi salute. It is interpreted to be racist to Black and Brown communities, the Jewish community, the LGBTQ community, and others.

However, white supremacists veil it by labeling it “a Roman.” The historian of Roman history, Dr Samuel Agbamu, Lecturer in Classics, took a moment to study the difference between a Roman and fascist salute and found that there is no evidence from Rome that there even is a Roman salute. “Those of us who research and teach Roman antiquity, as I do,” he said, “will tell you there is no evidence that there was ever such a thing as a ‘Roman salute’ in antiquity.”

Where Is The Video To Watch?

The video has been republished here in this article. Scroll down where you will see a video that contains both Mayor Kathy Martin’s remarks during a meeting, followed by the incident.

Community Groups at Facebook’s Response To The Nazi Salute

Many people in the community were quick to publicly identify Daniel and his business in comment threads on various posts. The video was first posted on Inside Scoop Fishkill, a group on Facebook moderated by James Kearney, but then it was deleted. Another Fishkill group, Keep Fishkill Beautiful moderated by Karen Finnegan, then published an edited version, where the teens were blurred out.

Karen told ALBB: “Inside Scoop Fishkill, with over 10k members, ended up pulling the video and issued this statement. Keep Fishkill Beautiful has no problem at all publishing the video. There are ways to control discussions on groups like this while also standing on the right side of history. Our group with just 3k followers put it up - safely, monitoring comments, and not only that - brought it to the attention of both the Town and the Board, which is why Mayor Martin made her statement. Regular people need to be doing this daily. Keep Fishkill Beautiful is trying to be seen as a nonpartisan group that also isn’t OK with literal Nazis here.”

ALBB reached out to Inside Scoop Fishkill for comment, and received this statement from James: “The decision to remove the post was not made to protect or excuse his actions. We do not condone what happened in the video whatsoever.

“The post was removed because the comments escalated into people sharing personal information, including addresses, threats toward immediate family members, and photos of children. Once it became a safety concern involving a child and people not directly involved, we had a responsibility to remove it.

“There is a difference between holding someone accountable and putting uninvolved family members, children, or private individuals at risk. We do not own or defend his actions, but we are responsible for keeping this page from becoming a place where personal information, threats, or photos of children are shared.

“We appreciate your understanding as we try to balance open discussion, accountability, privacy, and safety for the entire community.”

Keep Fishkill Beautiful is continuing its advocacy at the Town Meeting, and provided this statement to ALBB: “The normalization of expressions of hate and oppression has increased exponentially in our country.

“What would have been unheard of ten years ago has become a regular occurrence. The only thing that we as regular citizens can do - is to pressure our elected officials to take these heinous acts seriously and govern FOR THE PEOPLE.

“I’ve asked the Town of Fishkill to do something beyond issuing a statement. Form a committee, issue a proclamation, revoke his business license…anything to let everyone in the community know that there is no place for hate in our community.”

Village of Fishkill Police Commissioner Glenn R. Scofield Jr. has not yet released if any enforcement will be taken, such as harassment of teens.

Friends Responses To The Nazi Salute

“The Fishkill Nazi is 100% without a doubt Daniel Mandia,” one person told ALBB. “I have known him for over 40 years. He grew up in Beacon. He is the oldest of 11 siblings, all of which are decent people along with his parents who are good people.”

One acquaintance confirmed that Daniel enjoyed being a rapper under the pseudonym "D-tox." “But when that didn't work out, he chose white supremacy,” the friend concluded.

An acquaintance also confirmed that Daniel is the same Daniel who caused the death of a motorcyclist, Nicole Pepe, age 26, in 2014, as reported in the Poughkeepsie Journal. From the article: “Police reported the crash occurred about 11:18 p.m. Aug. 16. Pepe was a passenger on a Harley Davidson Motorcycle that collided with a car near the intersection of Baxtertown Road and Jackson Street.”

The acquaintance continued to ALBB: “That incident happened at the Fishkill Block Party 2014. I have personal knowledge that he was drinking all night before the accident.” It is unknown at this time if the investigation into the car crashing into the motorcycle involved a breathalyzer test.

Law Enforcement’s Response To The Nazi Salute

ALBB reached out to Village of Fishkill Police Commissioner Glenn R. Scofield Jr. to confirm a police report made about the incident and inquire as to what action was being taken by law enforcement. Commissioner Glenn R. Scofield Jr. responded: “The department is actively following up on this matter. However, we do not comment on open or pending investigations. Consequently, we cannot provide statement or confirmation regarding the incident details or the social media account mentioned at this time. As far as the position of the Village of Fishkill Police Department, I refer you to the statement provided by Mayor Martin at the June 1, 2026, meeting of the Village Board of Trustees.”

Mayor Kathy Martin’s Response To The Nazi Salute

Mayor Kathy Martin is the Mayor of the Village of Fishkill. But she is also the tax assessor for the City of Beacon (see previous coverage of assessment review board here). And had been a board member of the Board of Ethics Board of Dutchess County, but does not appear to be on that board anymore (ALBB highlighted her board position an article when Beacon City Council questioned Mayor Kyriacou about how to submit ethics complaints about Beacon board members). Many roads had lead to Kathy Martin.

Mayor Martin’s statement was strong and swift. Beacon usually sees her in a service capacity, explaining how tax assessments work every year, encouraging people to come to her if they have any questions. But in her role as Mayor of East Fishkill, she took a much different tone in condemning the action. Her quote in full is below, and the video of the incident and her statement is below:

“We had our Block Party this past weekend and it was a really, really great night. However, it's been brought to my attention that there was a posting on social media that was completely unacceptable. I want to state very clearly that the Village of Fishkill, and I as Mayor, do not condone acts of hate, prejudice, antisemitism, or racism. I apologize to all of the people who are upset by this, but please know that we are upset as well. There is no place for hate here in the Village of Fishkill.

"I also wanted to read a full statement of this: The village of Fishkill stands firmly against antisemitism, bigotry, hatred and discrimination in all of their forms. Acts of prejudice and intolerance have no place in our community. Our strength comes from the diversity of our residents, and from the shared values of respect, dignity and inclusion that unite us.

"We condemn any acts or actions or rhetoric that targets individuals because of their faith, ethnicity, race, national origin, or background. Antisemitismm, like all forms of hate, undermines the very principles of community and democracy that we hold dear.

"As Mayor, I remain committed to fostering a Village where every person feels safe, valued and welcomed. We must continue to stand together and speak out against hatred and support one another in building a community rooted in understanding, compassion and mutual respect. The Village of Fishkill is strongest when we stand united.

"We had so many compliments and good feelings at this event, that I really am saddened that this person took it upon themselves to blemish the event. We won't accept that kind of hatred here in the Village of Fishkill."

ALBB reached out to the Town Supervisor of East Fishkill, Nick D’Alessandro, for comment, who responded: "There is zero tolerance for hate of any kind, period."

The Town of Fishkill published this statement on their Facebook.

Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, as reported by Hudson Valley Post: “I roundly condemn this conduct and it has no place in Dutchess County. I am proud to see so many members of our community speaking out against this hateful act.”

Legislator Yvette Valdes Smith has made a statement: “Family, unity, and respect. These are Fishkill values, and why I love our community so much. I’m horrified by the hateful, anti-Semitic action of one individual at the Fishkill Block Party. I condemn this person’s behavior in the strongest way and applaud everyone who has spoken out against it. I am proud to stand with my Fishkill neighbors in unity against hate. As Americans, it is our privilege and our responsibility to call out hate and injustice. I am proud to represent our diverse, welcoming, and inclusive community.”

Mike Schade for Dutchess County Legislature tweeted: "Hate and antisemitism have no place in our community. This man's action is despicable."

A reader of the Hudson Valley Post article, Steve Greenfield, commented: “He didn't do it randomly, or even at a group of Jews, or a synagogue, making it stupid, and hateful, but not illegal.

“The situation was two adolescent girls were filming themselves doing some TikTok dance thing, and a middle aged man sneaked up behind them to do that. If I were the father of either of them, that guy, who is easily identifiable, would have had a visit he'd remember for the rest of his life.

“He should be arrested for harassment of children as a warning. He did not do it to offend Jews. He did it to mess with children, children who most likely are not Jewish, albeit what's visible is not absolute evidence of that. Just most likely. That's the issue.”

Last BHS Spring Concert For Ms. Fisher (Formerly Wright) June 2nd

The last Beacon High School Spring Concert for Ms. Susan Fisher (formerly Wright) will be June 2, 2026 at 7pm. The BHS Chorus Alumni are invited to sing the Sea Lullaby with the performers, according to the BHS Chorus Instagram.

The concert was originally scheduled for May, but due to the HVAC replacement project that was planned in the district’s Capital Project, the concert was rescheduled to June 2.

Also at the high school will be the College Athletics Signing Ceremony for graduating seniors who are committed to playing college athletics, according to Dr. Dwyer, the school’s principal.

Overflow parking located across the street at Rombout Middle School. Come early.

What In The AI Sidewalk Sign? A Real Back Patio at Royal Crêpes Featuring Turkish Coffee In The Copper Pot, Crepes, and Eastern European Groceries

What in the AI sidewalk sign? Their bold newly designed sign is catching eyes for their beautiful, real, back patio at Royal Crêpes & European Market! That’s their real patio and furniture, not imaginary ones. .

Everything in the photo is real. That copper Turkish coffee pot is real from inside of Royal Crêpes, as is that chocolate crepe. The owner is Albanian from Kosovo, and the food is Eastern Europe Balkan.

UPDATE: After this article published, the designer of the sign, SingleandHungryClub chimed in to let ALBB readers know that he designed the sign: “I made the sign. It’s not AI. It’s from an actual photo. I then overlayed typography, logo, etc.” #MadeInBeaconNY.

The European Market tucked away inside offers groceries from Coatia, Macedonia, Albania, Serbia and Bulgaria. Find chocolate Turkish Delight, Mocca, Napolitanke, Stixishot, Kreker pepper sauces for dipping or spreads, strawberry jam, olives, and other goodies.

Drinks include refreshing San Pellegrino in Aranciata, Ciliegia & Limone, and other flavors. Open the fridge to grab feta, goat cheese, and bread sausages.

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Things To Do In Beacon, NY 📅 05/30/2026

City of Beacon to Raise the Pride Flag Day: Monday June 1st, 2026 Time: 6:30pm Location: 1 Municipal Plaza (Town Hall) Beacon, NY 12508 Shortly before the 7pm City Council Meeting, the Pride Flag will be raised. Mayor Kyriacou will read Beacon's Pride Month Proclamation. kk Naimool, Executive Steward of Queer Family Network that has been coordinating Beacon Pride Events for almost a decade, has requested and been granted a few moments to speak. Come for the flag raising, stay for kk's words. Information > Public Comment of Beacon City Council Meeting Day: Monday June 1st, 2026 Time: 7pm Location: 1 Municipal Plaza (Town Hall) Beacon, NY 12508 Join your local Beacon businesses on Monday to share your support for the Newburgh Beacon ferry connection.  Businesses overwhelmingly shared that the ferry would bring positive developments helping them- whether it’s more patronage or less congestion/parking demands. SAVE THE DATES Peekskill Open Studios Day: Saturday, June 6, 2026 Time: 12pm-5pm Location: Multiple venues throughout Peekskill, NY 100+ artists, 30+ studios, galleries & special exhibition spaces—including the Tent Site Gallery, Off the Beaten Track at Westchester Community College, Hudson Valley MOCA, the Peekskill Clay Studios and the Field Gallery—will open their doors to the public for this year’s event. Information > Beacon Litfest (Main Event) EARLY BIRD PASS available until April 1st. Day: June 12th-14th, 2026 (Friday - Sunday) Time: TBA Location: Multiple venues throughout Beacon, NY Big Literary Voices. Small Town Vibes (c) Enjoy major award-winning poets and writers, immersive performances, mixers, book signings, special VIP experience, and more! We are thrilled with this year's line-up! Find out more at beaconlitfest.org Tickets > Beacon's Backyard Kitchen Trivia Night Fundraiser Day: Thursday, June 11th, 2026 Location: The Yard, 4 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY 12508 All are welcome for a free hot breakfast every week on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays from 6:30am-8:30am, with a grab-and-go lunch. This fundraiser helps fuel the food that is cooked fresh. From the makers of Ella's Bella's, so the food is delicious. Moon, Serpent & Bone: Oddities and Curiosities Night Market 8th Annual Summer Solstice; "Saints & Sinners;" Live Performances Day: Friday, June 19th, 2026 Time: 6pm-10pm Location: Prophecy Hall, 1113 Wolcott Ave, Beacon, NY 12508 Eggbert’s Free Range Farm Pick up your frozen raw pet food at any farmer's market, in a variety of flavors. Smoked pet treats too! Wednesdays: Cornwall Farmer's Market 11am-5pm Saturdays: Cold Spring Farmer's Market 10am-1pm Sundays: Beacon Farmer's Market 10am - 2pm Farm Fridge: Shake and Grind, 190 S. Plank Road, Newburgh SHOP ONLINE: Order Online  DELIVERY: 🚚 Free Website >    Instagram > Eggbert's Free Range Farm is a Sponsor! The Station Dispensary 463 Main Street, Beacon NY According to NPR in 2024: "Daily marijuana use in the United States now outpaces daily drinking. That's according to a recent study that looks at nationwide data on drug use. Researchers examined records of the National Survey on Drug Use and Health from 1979 to 2022, and they found that by 2022, the number of daily or near-daily users of marijuana had skyrocketed, while the number of daily or near-daily drinkers fell." Website >    Instagram > The Station Dispensary is a Sponsor! Features from our Sponsors. Is your business on the menu? CARTER'S RESTAURANT 424 Main Street, Beacon NY Save the date for June 13th to experience an art show experience outside at Carter's. Show up again (and in between) for their Father's Day BBQ (kids under 8 eat free). Call: 845-743-6527 Instagram > Carter's is a Sponsor! HUDSON VALLEY FOOD HALL 288 Main Street, Beacon NY It has happened. Vic stepped outside, as we all want to in this Spring weather (except today...Saturday has been pretty crappy but everyone is open and plenty of people are outside!). Old Dhaka Coffee House is dropping their summer drinks. Pull up a straw. Follow HV Food Hall's Chefs: Nami Yum Yum Roosevelt Bar Tara Fusion Cuisine Old Dhaka Coffee House Five Pennies Creamery Palmetto Burger Co. Chakra Bowl Hudson Valley Food Hall is a Sponsor! PIGGY BANK 2.0 446 Main Street, Beacon NY The Piggy Bank is hosting watch parties during the NBA Finals. Next game will be June 3rd, the full schedule of dates have been posted at the Piggy Bank's listing in ALBB's Restaurant Guide for your convenience. Instagram > Piggy Bank 2.0 is a Sponsor! HEALTHY IN COLOR 259 Main Street, Beacon NY Lunch/Snack Time! Those who have been into Healthy In Color lately may have been told about the new Sugar Crusher dressing/sauce that Angel has been developing inside. It’s apple cider vinegar based and designed to smooth out and manage sugar spikes from eating carbs and other combinations. But what about when one wants a soda? Healthy In Color carries the solution: Poppi, the prebiotic soda…🍒🍇 Watch This Video > Instagram > Healthy In Color is a Sponsor! ZIATUN BEACON 244 Main Street, Beacon NY Why does Ziatün have a "Protect Doctors" sign in the window? Read To Find Out > Ziatun is a Sponsor! BEACON BREAD COMPANY 193-195 Main Street, Beacon NY Told you we'd get to the bottom of that purple drink in our last photo of Beacon Bread! It is their Blueberry Basil Lemonade and Seasonal Margaritas! Made with the freshest ingredients 😉🫐🌿 Instagram > Beacon Bread Company is a Sponsor! REGISTRATION OPEN Beacon Open Studios 2026 REGISTRATION OPEN Day: Friday-Sunday, June 26-28, 2026 Registration Deadline: May 31, 2026 Register Here > Time: 12-6pm Locations Open Location: All over Beacon. Open Studios will post a map online. Reception: Friday, June 26th, 6-9pm at The Yard, 4 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY Information > City Wide Yard Sale Day: June 13th, 2026 Time: 9am-3pm Location: Beacon, NY Enjoy shopping from neighbors of the City of Beacon as they dig out their treasures and put them on display for you in their yards, porches and stoops. Anyone can have a yard sale. But if you want your yard sale listed in the City’s official map, you can do so for $10. You can group with friends and list 3 yard sales for $20. And if you really want exposure, you can list it with A Little Beacon Blog for $60! ;) Registration with City of Beacon (optional) > Mountain Stream Budo 340 Main Street, Beacon NY JUJITSU CLASSES Jujutsu (literally translated as “the science of softness”) is a traditional Japanese throwing and grappling art. Matt, a jujitsu white belt student, practices a few throws in preparation for his first rank test. YOU can start any time! No experience necessary; beginners welcome! Jujitsu Schedule: Mondays 7-8pm Wednesday 6-7pm Fridays 6:30-7:30pm Located on Eliza Street (right between Re:Form Pilates and Oui Oui Café) Learn More > Mountain Stream Budo 340 Main Street, Beacon NY Li’l Dragons Karate class (ages 4-6) meets 3 times per week: Tuesdays and Fridays 5pm Thursdays 5:30pm. Email Noah at info@MountainStreamBudo for more info and to schedule your free trial class!  Learn More > BOOK YOUR EVENT PROMOTION Single purchases of Event Promotions are available, starting at $60/listing. Membership for Deep Discounts on event listings are available. Beauty Guide Update: Sullivan & Main Moves to Middle Main Street Around Corner From Lore’s Cafe Sullivan & Main, the hair salon from Ryan Sullivan, has moved from the east end of town to the middle of Main Street, located around the corner from Lore’s Cafe, the destination for the Beacon-famous Dubai croissant. Ryan became known for her signature vibrant coloring, and has cut hair since 1999. After being diagnosed with breast cancer pre-Covid, Ryan became even more committed to a “healthy, environmentally responsible, and safe salon.” Read More > BUSINESSES IN THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY ART > ANTIQUES Hudson Valley Auctioneers > AUTOMOTIVE > TRANSPORTATION SERVICES Luxury Taxi Service, AQ Services, Inc from Luther Lopez > BEAUTY The Luminous Bride >  Makeup By Jenny Magliano > BLACK OWNED BUSINESSES See them here > BRANDING  >  MARKETING & PR Tin Shingle Katie James, Inc. DENTAL Beacon Dental HEALTH AND WELLNESS > MASSAGE CareFull, MD (Urgent Care or Walk-In Doctor) Kristen Verge, LCSW River Therapeutic Massage  HOME IMPROVEMENT > HVAC SERVICES Shelter Air HOME IMPROVEMENT > ROOFING Maneri Roofing REAL ESTATE Carlin Felder with Stevens Real Estate, eXp Realty ADVERTISE IN ALBB'S BUSINESS DIRECTORY Free Breakfast Program Day: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays Time: 6:30am-8:30am Location: 12 Hanna Lane, Beacon, NY 12508 They have a Wish List of food items! If you're in the mood to donate, find the list here. Information > FRIDAYS: Fareground's Free Community Dinner Day/Time: Fridays, 5:30pm-7:30pm Location: First Presbyterian, 50 Liberty Street, Beacon, NY 12508 Information > Volunteer > Donate >

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Pride Flag To Be Raised By City Of Beacon In Ceremony Monday June 1; Short Speeches Given Prior To Council Meeting

The City of Beacon first raised its Pride flag in 2022. At that time, Mayor Kyriacou made a point to mention that he purchased the flag himself. This year, the City of Beacon will raise the flag again with a short ceremony at 6:30pm before the City Council Meeting, during which Mayor Kyriacou will read an annual City of Beacon proclamation of June as Pride Month.

kk Naimool (kay-kay, all pronouns) will also deliver a short speech. kk is a Founding Partner at Collective Justice, and is the former Human Rights Commissioner for the City of Beacon’s Human Rights Commission before the commission was dissolved by the City of Beacon.

Read speeches given by KK and Donna Minkowitz at that time.

Beauty Guide Update: Sullivan & Main Moves to Middle Main Street Around Corner From Lore’s Cafe

Sullivan & Main, the hair salon from Ryan Sullivan, has moved from the east end of town to the middle of Main Street, located around the corner from Lore’s Cafe, the destination for the Beacon-famous Dubai croissant.

Ryan became known for her signature vibrant coloring, and has cut hair since 1999. “I 1,0000% love what I do!” she says on her website. After being diagnosed with breast cancer pre-Covid, Ryan became even more committed to a “healthy, environmentally responsible, and safe salon.”

She carries the Arete products and hair color, which are cruelty-free, (mostly) gluten-free, and in post-consumer plastic. The color line is PPD, which is ammonia-free. Holistic Hair Tribe is also carried there to bring you a choice of organic, sustainable, and fair-trade non-toxic products.

“I’m so grateful to be cancer-free and be able to share this space, these products, and spend time making people feel beautiful on the outside as well as healthy on the inside!”

To reach the salon, follow the black Sullivan and Main sign hanging near the Lore’s Cafe sign, and turn the corner down the sidewalk path. There, you will see another little sign for the salon. This is a by-appointment only salon. Book appointments on Sullivan & Main’s website.

The 2024 Movie Filmed On Beacon's Main Street - "There She Goes" - Premiers May 2026 - Here Are The Shops Featured

The rom-com There She Goes staring Rachael Leigh Cook and Utkarsh Ambudkar (Pitch Perfect) that filmed on Beacon’s Main Street in 2024 is premiering Thursday May 28th, 2026 on FoxTV, as reported by The Wolf 97.7. If anyone knows how to watch FoxTV anymore, please do chime in in the comments! Would have turned it on if ALBB hadn’t cut cable, and hasn’t researched how to watch regular TV on a laptop or phone.

According to IMDB, the movie premise is: “Molly and Advay meet again twenty five years after being high school sweethearts. They seemed destined to be together forever, but it all ended when she rose to stardom in Hollywood as a teenage actress.”

Main Street Beacon is prominently featured in the trailer, and include former Reserva (now Estilo Y Vino Wine Bar), Play (toy store), Beetle and Fred (has since moved up the block a few blocks, replaced by the MOD clothing boutique), Notions n Potions and Hudson Beach Glass.

Watching this moment of the film be filmed in Beacon was a day ALBB will never forget. The day was so fun. It was one of the heights of the genocide in Palestine. ALBB was not publishing many feel-good stories. We were mainly publishing Palestinian news. There was no ounce of wanting to give anyone brunch recommendations or celebrity sightings. A few people began harassing us for it by sending anonymous boycott letters. It sucked, but we made it through.

On this day of filming the energy was buzzing as storefronts were anticipating the film crew possibly catching their storefronts. So ALBB went out for a viewing party with any of the stores. Being friends with Shyrl of Notions n Potions, ALBB went in there. Sitting in that witchy store on her velvet thrones was so fun. We were laughing the afternoon away. You can see what we saw here, where ALBB published it. At my encouragement (ALBB used to be married to a Location Manager, so I knew she had a good chance of getting paid), she even got paid for being a location because the actors accidentally ducked into her shop during a scene!

Sheryl and ALBB had first met at an old Beacon Chamber of Commerce meeting, where ALBB was helping them regain control of their website, and then redesign the website, which we accomplished for them (that Chamber is now defunct and they let the website die). In 2024, we reconnected when seeing each other in the ladies locker room at the gym when we finished our fitness routines. It was a joy seeing her.

The day after ALBB published about the filming of the movie There She Goes, Sheryl sent a DM, which killed the day, and makes it one we will never forget. She said: “Hello, I really cannot support your business because you openly support terrorism and terrorists. I have been Jewish all my life and have been persecuted for it in school and beyond. My family is also from Romanian descent so some were gypsies. You have NO idea what it is like to be a Jew! So you enjoy the life you deserve Katie!”

Receiving that DM sucked. Especially after sitting with Sheryl for so many hours that day. Forgetting about all of the sadness in the world for those moments.

Katie responded: “It’s taken you 8 months to say this?”

Sheryl said: “Yes, after we hung out it really started bothering me. I needed to say something.”

Katie thanked her for her honesty, and then published the DM to IG.

ALBB doesn’t know what it’s like being a Palestinian either. Neither a Christian Palestinian nor a Muslim Palestinian, but she watched enough killings of Palestinians by the Israeli IDF/IOF Occupation Army to know that it is systematic murder. ALBB also learned about Zionism and how it is conflated with Jewishness, which puts anti-Zionist Jews at risk of Zionism. ALBB was so sad after reading that from Sheryl. But glad to know where she stood. False safety is never ideal.

To find all of the shops in Beacon, visit A Little Beacon Blog’s Shopping Guide. And for brunch, lunch, and cocktail ideas, visit A Little Beacon Blog’s Restaurant Guide.

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Beacon Police Bring Man To Safety From Jumping Off Newburgh-Beacon Bridge Pedestrian Fence

Photo Credit: Katie Hellmuth

On Saturday, May 23rd, the Beacon Police responded to a call about a man attempting to jump off the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge near Newburgh on the eastbound side, who was standing on the top wrung of the fence, overlooking the Hudson River. “Though the bridge is not patrolled by the City of Beacon Police Department,” Beacon Chief Thomas Figlia said in a press release issued later on Wednesday, May 27th, “when calls like this come in, we respond due to our proximity.”

According to the press release, the man had climbed up the pedestrian fence, and was being spoken to by a woman who was trying to help. “He was speaking to a female passerby, who stopped to try to assist him, and was stating that he wanted to kill himself.”

It was at that time that “officers acted quickly to take hold of the male and bring him down off of the fence to safety.” Town of Newburgh Officers arrived at that point, who then took the man for a mental health evaluation.

If anyone is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please call the New york State Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Bridge Jumps on the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge Happen On A Regular Basis

Scenarios like this happen on a regular basis from the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge, but do not have such an outcome. On a Saturday in September 2025, a woman jumped from the opposite side of the bridge where there is no pedestrian walkway or fence at all. After hitting the water, she was rescued alive by first responders in the water.

The Beacon Police will at times station an officer at Pete and Toshi Riverfront Park while a rescue is in motion, in case anyone is found in the water downriver.